On Wednesday the Detroit Lions will hold training camp — for one night only — at Wayne State, Bell’s alma mater.

“It means a lot, it’s where I come from. that’s what gave me shot,’’ Bell said after Tuesday’s practice. “How many players can say they’re going to practice at their old college, with their professional football team? it’s an honor, I feel privileged, I’m blessed.’’

In his senior season in 2009, Bell won the Harlon Hill Trophy that goes to the Division II player of the year. He had 2,084 yards and 29 touchdowns that season.

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He can’t wait to get back.

“It’s great, I started off there when I got there we turned that program around completely,’’ Bell said. “I think when I left they went to the first national championship game in 2011, I believe. I’m proud of my alma mater, D-II, D-III whatever it is, if you have talent you have talent. D-II don’t have too many great players but we really do.

That trip to the playoffs was the first ever for the Warriors who lost the title game to the Pittsburg State Gorillas.

It’s not just Bell who is excited to get away from Lions’ headquarters for one night.

“I’m excited about having the opportunity to see them in another setting,,’’ coach Jim Caldwell said. “That’s kind of part of this whole thing is to get them away from this setting some. It’s not quite like an away game, but it is a little bit of a different atmosphere.

“We want to see them adjust. We kind of changed up our practice times because of that. We’re trying to build that mentality that we can play anywhere, anytime, against anyone. This gives us the opportunity to do that, along with another portion of our fan base. Our fan base is very important to us. They do such a tremendous job supporting us, so we’ll maybe see another portion of our fan base over at Wayne State,’’ Caldwell said.

“We’re excited,’’ left guard Rob Sims said. “If you’re a ballplayer you love playing under the lights, you love playing in front of people and showing off your gifts and talents. ... Camp is always fun to me because you get to play in front of all these people.’’

Does Sims expect a little showboating from Bell?

“Of course, that’s Joique,’’ Sims said.

Martha Ford visits

Lions’ owner Martha Ford attended training camp on Tuesday, spending most of her time on the field chatting with team president Tom Lewand.

This is the first season since 1963 that the Lions will play without owner William Clay Ford who died in March at age 88.

Martha Ford, his wife of 66 years, has been seen often at training camp throughout the years — often with her late husband and also other family members. Son Bill Ford Jr., remains vice chairman of the Lions.

Van Noy returns

Rookie linebacker Kyle Van Noy missed most of Monday’s practice after he injured his thumb.

He was back at work on Tuesday.

Van Noy is in competition with Ashlee Palmer for a starting outside linebacker position.

“I think he has many (strengths). I do think he does everything so easily,’’ Caldwell said. “He’s fluid, he’s got speed, obviously he’s got size and bulk and he’s got a good understanding as well. He’s got a really fine football mentality and a football IQ. I’m looking forward to seeing him in pads and looking forward to seeing him obviously start to progress even in our preseason games, where he gets a few more opportunities for some contact.’’

Day 2 progress made

Tuesday was the second day of training camp for the Lions who open the preseason with a game on Aug. 9.

So far so good.

“Alright, Day 2 was one of those days where I think we ended up adding a few more things, just in terms of installation,’’ Caldwell said. “Obviously they’ve heard it a number of times, but you can still see some growth that has to be taken place between now and when we get started. But I think we are making good progress, the hustle has been good, the effort has been excellent, and the attentiveness has been good as well. Probably had a few too many penalties today, but I think we got better.”

About the Author

Paula Pasche is a longtime sports writer for The Oakland Press and blogs at http://oplions.blogspot.com/. Author of book, "100 Things Lions Fans Should Know & Do Before They Die." Follow on Tout and Twitter @paulapasche. Reach the author at paula.pasche@oakpress.com
or follow Paula on Twitter: @PaulaPasche.